A short clip from a police body worn camera showed Farrell sitting in the medical room - switched on when he'd "refused to listen" to a police officer - reject the test despite being told it was "long established in law" he must give a sample immediately, before seeking legal advice.

His solicitor, Michael Robinson, had earlier put to PC Morris that his presence in the nurse's office during the procedure was "unhelpful" and claimed the circumstances at the station had created a "pressure cooker" atmosphere in which proper consent could never be granted.

PC Morris said it was normal for an officer to be present during the process, as they needed to ensure evidence was not tampered with and also provide protection to healthcare professionals.

Mr Robinson said it was 46-year-old Farrell's "honestly held view" that he had not given informed consent.

He pointed to Royal College of Nursing guidelines, which state a medical professional can decide not to take blood if there's a medical reason - and questioned why Farrell had not been given time alone to discuss his issue with the nurse as he "showed no aggression, and was low risk".

Under prosecution questioning, Farrell - who has a previous drink driving conviction from 2009 - claimed he'd mentioned his "problem with needles" and asked to give a urine test instead.

But District Judge Tim Capstick said: "I reject the defendant's account, in that it's inconsistent with that of the other witnesses.

"It is clear he was under the influence of alcohol.

"And I reject his assertion that he asked for a urine test. I reject the claim he raised a medical reason that he had a problem with needles.

"There was no reasonable excuse to refuse the test."

Teesside Magistrates' Court

Farrell was convicted and will be sentenced at the same court on Wednesday afternoon. He was bailed and given an interim driving ban until then.

The GP is currently a partner in a Stockton-based NHS practice and a "regional GP" for Virgin Healthcare.

Mr Robinson said Farrell, of Sun Gardens, Thornaby, had already appeared before the General Medical Council.

"He has undertaken with them not to consume alcohol for 12 months," he said.